Adidas Metalbone 3.2 HRD

Design and Technologies

Used by the Spanish superstar Ale Galan, the Adidas Metalbone 3.2 HRD is a racket that you’ll instantly recognize. Indeed, with its classy black design featuring the white three stripes logo, this pala is a perfect reflection of the player who wields it: incredibly classy. It has a diamond shape, which immediately signals its focus on aggressive play, but you can still adjust the balance thanks to the Metalbone technology. Let’s see how this elegant gem performs on the court!

Performance on the court

First, let’s discuss the racket’s touch. From the very first strikes, you’ll notice that you’re using one of the most powerful rackets on the market. The firm foam, combined with the 2 TO 1 carbon composition, provides a rigid touch that effectively transfers power and offers substantial precision, assuming you have good technique. However, be aware that the sweet spot is relatively small, making it unforgiving when your shots aren’t optimal.

As you might expect, this model truly shines at the net. It significantly aids you in delivering strong and precise volleys. When it comes to smashes, this racket is truly exceptional. Its rigidity and balance provide amazing power when you need to execute forceful strikes. It’s also particularly advantageous for blocking hard shots from your opponents, a characteristic that aligns well with the style of the Spanish player.

Defense is where this racket faces its most significant challenges. Due to its hardness and reduced sweet spot, you need to master the art of ball placement; otherwise, you’ll find yourself frequently punished. The lack of elasticity necessitates excellent footwork—you can’t simply wait for the ball to come to you and expect easy returns. Therefore, it’s not recommended for beginners, intermediate players, or those who are not in good physical condition.

We attempted to alter the balance using custom weights, but despite gaining a bit more maneuverability when placing the weight near the grip, we wouldn’t recommend it unless you specifically feel the need to reduce head weight for a short period. For example, if you’ve been inactive for a while and believe your body requires some adjustment time, you might consider this option. However, we believe that the ideal configuration is with the weight oriented towards the head. To clarify, if you’re dealing with tennis elbow or seeking joint protection, opt for a different model with distinct characteristics.

Conclusion

The Adidas Metalbone 3.2 HRD was developed in collaboration with Ale Galan and is tailored for players who share the same attributes as the player who held the world number 1 position for three consecutive years. Therefore, if you consider yourself a true striker with powerful and accurate shots, coupled with strong court mobility, this racket is likely one of the best choices available. Conversely, if you prioritize comfort and maneuverability and require defensive support, you’re better off selecting a different model. In summary, the Metalbone 3.2 HRD is an excellent fit for aggressive offensive players who aim to maximize their powerful smashes and volleys, but it may not be the best fit for defensive players or those who lack athleticism